How SMART Mercury Removal Works
Dentists have to earn a certification from the IAOMT to practice SMART mercury removal. For decades, fillings like silver amalgam that contained mercury were the norm, but that was before medical professionals realized how toxic mercury was. The slow release of mercury from fillings may cause health issues over time.
There is now a shift to using other filling materials like composites, especially since these alternatives usually provide better aesthetics as well. Silver amalgam fillings tend to have a dark greyish color that can be easily spotted when opening the mouth.
How Mercury in Fillings Impacts Your Health
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), trace amounts of mercury will not have a noticeable impact on a person's health, but higher concentrations can lead to issues like headaches, memory loss, fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and other health problems.
The removal of silver amalgam fillings can leave a patient exposed to mercury vapor, which is just as bad. We use specialized equipment to remove and safely dispose of fillings that contain mercury. Dentists have extra incentives to keep the patient's exposure to mercury to a minimum since they also face exposure to it during the procedure. Unlike the patient, the dentist might perform such treatments several times a day, increasing their exposure.
Alternatives to Mercury Amalgam Fillings
One regular option for filling materials is composite resin. Using them to fix cavities is inexpensive, and the composite can be color-matched to the patient's teeth. Composite resins do not contain any mercury or other metals, making them a viable option for repairing a decayed tooth.
Call Us Today
Call 716-689-8882 to learn more and get started with SMART Mercury Removal. Our team will get rid of your amalgam fillings and apply safer, more aesthetically-pleasing alternative fillings.
Contact Us
Shannon H. McCarthy DDS is located at
777 Hopkins Road
Williamsville, NY
14221